Scott Bacon calls on Matthew Groom to resolve gas contract 'crisis'

Opposition energy spokesman Scott Bacon has called on Energy Minister Matthew Groom to resolve the state’s supposed gas contract crisis, as the Council of Australian Governments Energy Council meeting wrapped up in Brisbane.

Mr Groom attended the meeting on Friday, along with federal Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg and state and territory ministers.

There, the ministers discussed the planned implementation of the Australian Domestic Gas Security Mechanism, which will serve to restrict exports on liquefied natural gas in times of domestic shortages.

They also agreed for the Australian Energy Market Operator to administer the Capacity Trading Platform and the Day-Ahead Auction, making it easier for gas contractors to trade excess supply.

Moreover, the assembled ministers doubled down on their commitment to advancing the Commonwealth’s Gas Acceleration Program, an initiative that will endeavour to provide further gas to Australia’s East Coast within three years.

It was noted at the COAG meeting that the council was making progress with its Gas Supply Strategy.